When I look at 2014 I would like to say it was a year full of nothing but awesomeness, but that wouldn't be an accurate portrayal of life. A lot of great things happened, but every day is filled with ups and downs. Some things are easier to let go of than others. I'd like to say that pain is in our life to make the good moments brighter, but that seems trite. Things don't always happen for a reason.

I choked up a little bit after my husband and I purchased our new phones. It was a reasonable time to clean up my list of contacts. Two people were deleted because it's not possible to call them again - they had passed away. My husband and I lost Champ. Sometimes I expect to see Champ when I wake up. He liked sleeping in and would give me a dirty look when I got up to get ready for work. I miss his indignant glare as much as his happy dance when he greeted me at the door.

These things sting, but some incredible things happened this year. My first book was published (not the first I wrote - that will never see the light of day). I learned a lot of things the hard way, but the publishing process is no longer a scary mystery. I became friends with people who leave me in awe with their wit, intelligence, and talent. Old friendships have been rekindled, and something as simple as a book brought me closer to family. I feel lucky I got to know my sister-in-law better. She's kind, hilarious, and a wealth of knowledge. Most of the books I have read that I rave about were a result of her recommendation.

2014 Highlight: Uncle Dude (AKA Husband) doing yoga with the nieces

2014 wasn't perfect, but there is a lot to be thankful for. I'm not sure what 2015 will bring, but I've started my list of goals. Book two of The Hunted series has gone to beta readers. There are at least two other books that stand a reasonable chance of being published. I would like to spend more time with friends and family, and balance my time between my day job and my writing a little better. I didn't do the best job of exercising and taking care of myself this year. In 2015 I need to figure out how to fit exercise in with writing and work - and maybe sneak in a vacation or two.